Gift shop celebrates 35 years of business

Monday

Aug 25, 2014 at 1:00 PM

By Andy BarrandTwitter: @abarrandHDN

HILLSDALE — From its origins as a small gift cart, the Hillsdale Community Health Center’s (HCHC) gift shop has evolved over the years into a full-fledged gift shop.The shop, tucked away next to the lobby of the HCHC, features a wide variety of unique gifts. Operated by volunteers, the shop is currently celebrating its 35th anniversary.During the celebration the shop is holding a drawing for a gift basket which features 35 items sold in the gift shop. The drawing will take place Sept. 4.Gift shop manager Noel Bisher put a twist on the contest by having those visiting the shop search for a decorated bag to submit their entries. Those entering the contest have to visit the shop after Sept. 4 to find out who won.The profit from the shop goes back into the community as it is used to provide scholarships for nursing students who graduate from schools in Hillsdale County.Bisher said the gift shop pledged to give $100,000 over five years to the scholarship. The shop has given $80,000 so far.The shop features gift items such as candles, jewelry, plush animals, toys, dolls and a wide variety of items which sell quickly.Bisher said one of the swiftest-selling items at the shop is interchangeable magnetic jewelry.“We sell out of it as fast as we get it in,” she said.The shop also features candy and flowers purchased from local retailers. All of the candy in the shop is purchased from Market House and flowers are supplied by Smith’s Flowers.The shop has around 20 volunteers who help to keep the shop running on a weekly basis and who work about three hours a week.Bisher said the shop would not be possible without the help of the volunteers.“If it wasn’t for Pat Knox, who handles our shipping and receiving, we wouldn’t have anything,” she said.Joyce Carpenter, a volunteer, said she got involved after a friend told her about the opportunity.“I love it, it has been a lot of fun,” Carpenter said. “I love to meet the public that comes in the shop.”Bisher said they are always looking for volunteers to help in the shop.“It is a relaxing atmosphere and there is no pressure,” Bisher said.In the coming months the shop will feature more items for the fall and Christmas.The shop is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays. It is closed on Sundays.